The National Day celebration on 17th December is one of the much-anticipated events for Bhutanese. Hundreds of people flock to the event venue every year to be part of the celebrations, catch a glimpse of their King and listen to the royal address. This year, the day at the Changlimithang stadium was extra special for two girls from Dagana and Samtse. They were able to be part of the grand festivity despite their disabilities. A philanthropist-owned centre, Karma Kelvin Centre, also called Centre for Hope helped them witness the celebrations live for the first time this year.
11-year-old Shekhar from Dagana and 16-year-old Bunu from Samtse live with some form of disabilities.
Shekhar is paralyzed and needs assistance for even the simplest task.
Bunu, though more mobile, still faces struggles.
The duo have been staying at Karma Kelvin Centre for the last four months.
It is 1:30 AM on Tuesday. Volunteers with the centre help the two girls get ready to move to the Changlimithang stadium.
For Shekhar and Bunu, this is their first time attending the National Day celebrations.
For them, the day is not just about watching the parade but also being a part of the celebrations that reflect the country’s past and bring promises of a brighter future.
Above all, their story celebrates resilience and strength, reminding us that every person deserves to feel seen and valued, no matter the odds.
Bunu said “This is my first time celebrating the National Day and I’m so happy I got to see His Majesty. It has always been my dream to be here, and I hope to witness this day again in the future.”
The day couldn’t have been more inclusive.
81-year-old Tshen Tshering from Haa is in Thimphu to celebrate the National Day. The father of 10 says he is the first person to enter the Changlimithang gate on Monday evening.
“I arrived here at 4 PM because I wanted to listen to our King’s speech and see our King. I am 81 years old and I thought this might be my last chance to see our King in person.”
From children to senior citizens like Tshen Tshering, many brave the freezing temperatures from Monday evening, eager to celebrate the day with their King the next day.
Volunteers and DeSuups ensure everyone is warm and energized by continuously serving tea and porridge. Meanwhile, entertainment programmes filled the long hours with warmth and joy.
Chimi Lhendup Penjor, a spectator said “I arrived here at 10 PM yesterday feeling a bit worried I might not get a chance to enter. However, I was fortunate enough to get in and be able to listen to His Majesty The King’s speech. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”
Tshering Yeewong Delkar, another spectator said “I am very lucky to be on the national day. I got the opportunity to see His Majesty The King, Her Majesty, The Gyaltsuen, and the Gyalsey. I feel very lucky and fortunate.”
Ninda Yeewong, who also attended the 117th National Day at Changlimithang said “Normally we wouldn’t get this opportunity to see His Majesty The King and the royal family. So, today I thought that this day would be the best opportunity to see His Majesty and the royal family. I was so excited to meet His Majesty and the Royal Family.”
As the celebrations at the Changlimithang stadium end by evening, Shekhar and Bunu leave the venue hopeful of witnessing yet another grand National Day celebrations with their King next year.
Karma Wangdi and Kipchu
